iPads Not Allowed Into iSrael

Before you board that plane to Tel Aviv with your snazzy new iPad, you should know that your shiny tablet-y thing will be confiscated by Israeli customs officials because Israel officials have yet to give the device their stamp of approval.

The Communications Ministry in Israel explains its decision to ban iPad imports — and to confiscate iPads from incoming travelers — by saying that the device’s wireless technology is not compatible with Israeli standards:

The iPad device sold exclusively today in the United States operates at broadcast power levels [over its WiFi modem] compatible with American standards… As the Israeli regulations in the area of WiFi are similar to European standards, which are different from American standards, which permit broadcasting at lower power, therefore the broadcast levels of the device prevent approving its use in Israel.

Until the ministry approves the iPad, we suggest you keep yours at home if you’re traveling to Israel.